Lampard backs veteran Cole for more FA Cup glory

Lampard backs veteran Cole for more FA Cup glory

Derby boss Frank Lampard has backed Ashley Cole to prolong his successful association with the FA Cup after the veteran defender came off the bench to score in the 2-1 fifth-round defeat at Brighton.

Ex-England left-back Cole has won the competition a record seven times, four times playing alongside Lampard at Chelsea.

The 38-year-old was brought on for the second half at the Amex Stadium and set up a tense final nine minutes by heading his first goal in English football since September 2012 in just his second Rams appearance.

January 2001: @TheRealAC3 makes his #FACup debut for Arsenal against Carlisle United.

Cole has a contract until the end of the season with the play-off-chasing Championship club, but Lampard sees no reason why his former team-mate cannot extend his professional career.

Asked if he can see Cole playing another FA Cup match, Lampard said: “Maybe, maybe. He’s been a machine all of his career in terms of fitness and looking after himself – if you look at him, he’s as lean as anybody.

“And as long as he has the desire, then that’s his call.

“I’m delighted for him because, at 38, he could comfortably kick back probably now already.

Lampard on @TheRealAC3: “He was calm and assured – he has all the experience of his career. He got his goal and we will need him.”#BHAFCvDCFC | #FACup

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